Guide Dogs of the Desert - Whitewater, California

Mishka S

My experience volunteering at Guide Dogs of the Desert was incredibly disappointing due to the mismanagement by the directors. From the beginning, there was a lack of organization and clear communication. Tasks were assigned haphazardly, and there was little support or guidance from the leadership team.

The directors seemed disinterested and disconnected from the volunteers' efforts. Instead of fostering a supportive environment, they created a tense atmosphere where volunteers felt undervalued and ignored.

Moreover, the facility itself was in poor condition. Basic maintenance seemed neglected, which was concerning given the nature of the organization's mission. It was disheartening to witness such a lack of care for both the animals and the volunteers who dedicated their time and effort.

Overall, my volunteering experience at Guide Dogs of the Desert was marred by incompetent leadership and inadequate support. I would caution anyone considering volunteering here to thoroughly research the organization's management practices before committing their time.

Austin Boylan

The executive director consistently dismissed suggestions for improvement and refused to consider alternative approaches, leading to stagnation in operations. Their dismissive attitude towards volunteers and staff members alike was demoralizing and disrespectful. It was evident that they valued their own authority over constructive collaboration. The executive director's rude demeanor was particularly disheartening. Instead of fostering a welcoming environment, they make you feel unwelcome and unappreciated. The lack of empathy and professionalism was detrimental to morale and apparently contributed to a high turnover rate among volunteers and staff as I had overheard.

Guide Dogs of the Desert's potential is severely limited by the stubborn and rude behavior of its executive director. Prospective volunteers and employees should be aware of these issues before committing their time and energy to this organization.

Ember B

I was disappointed by their glaring lack of communication, leaving me feeling ignored. Phone calls often resulted in being transferred from one voicemail to another without ever connecting to a person who could address my concerns. An absolute horrible organization.

Patti Palmer

I read in the Desert Sun this organization was looking for volunteers. I called them and gave them a brief verbal resume of myself (70 yo retired woman, professional dog sitter, and interested in helping). Nancy advised me that they would send me an email with a link for their website and a questionnaire. Sadly I'm still waiting for them to reach out me. I guess they no longer need volunteers.

Allison Stein

I have been meaning to write this for quite some time, but I never got around to it. Several years ago, I was a puppy raiser for a standard poodle for GDD. Keep in mind that I had worked with other guide dog organizations before. When they took my dog away for training the first time, he was returned to me with an untreated skin infection (from laying in a kennel treated with harsh chemicals) and and untreated ear infection in addition to having newly-acquired anxiety. When I tried to talk to GDD about the situation, they came to my house and took the dog away for more "training." Nine months later, they called me and said I could have the dog back because he wasn't fit for a guide dog. When I picked him up, I received a fearful dog who showed dog aggression and he had severe untreated infection from his neutering. When I contacted them to address the situation, they absolutely refused to return my calls and emails. It has been several years, and I have a great dog (with no health issues or dog aggression). There are other reputable guide dog organizations out there ..... use them and do NOT use GDD.

Peter K

Wonderful and caring organization! Thank you Lisa and Tom for all that you do!

haya Simkin

These guys train guide dogs that can cope with just about anything, from the broad and clean sidewalks of Palm Springs to the overcrowded and cracked sidewalks of Jerusalem. They even cope pretty well with the stray cats that are so prevalent there. Had the time of my life!

Sanita

Extensive amount of information. Easy to navigate.